Mt Hawthorn: Doctor tackling Ironman in diabetes fundraiser

A MT Hawthorn doctor is taking on a 3.8km swim, 180km bike ride and 42.2km run to raise funds for diabetes research.

Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital Diabetes Services director Joey Kaye is getting ready for the Ironman WA event in Busselton, and has served on the board of Diabetes Research WA for 13 years.

“I have treated and seen thousands of West Australians with both type one and type two diabetes, and they’ve inspired me no end with their dedication to their health even during the most difficult of times,” he said.

“When I decided to see what my body could do in setting out to complete this triathlon, it was an easy choice to raise money for Diabetes Research WA to further support people with diabetes who still so eagerly want to see breakthroughs and, ultimately, a cure.”

The 49-year-old endocrinologist said the fundraiser also helped highlight how important exercise was for health.

“Staying physically active can be hard for people with any form of diabetes as it can make managing their blood sugar level more problematic than normal, but it’s so critical to short and long term health,” Dr Kaye said.

To find out more or donate to Dr Kaye’s ‘Dash for Diabetes’ fundraiser, visit diabetesresearchwa.com.au or give.everydayhero.com/au/joey-s-ironman-challenge.